Chavez PCS Student Leaders Come Together
On November 21, members of our staff attended the Cesar Chavez PCS for Public Policy Community Teach-In. We gained a greater understanding of the issues, concerns and needs of Chavez students. Students used their voices in compelling ways to talk about issues that mattered the most to them. They covered topics such as safety in school, teacher-student relationships, and what they thought some of the most important social and political issues facing our nation today are.
It was clear these students are leaders and poised to use their talents and intellect to improve the world. This was a small step in empowering the next generation of civic leaders. It was powerful to bring non-profit leaders, educators, residents, and stakeholders together to help inform their work and hear first hand some of the joys and struggles of what it means to be a DC high school student. The experts in the room were students who spoke candidly and honestly about their experiences and what they needed from adults.
One of the most striking themes students expressed was their deep need to be heard and their desire for adults to build trusting relationships with them. While this may seem like such an obvious statement, it was important for students to voice that in public, in front of their teachers, administrators and other community members. They also were clear that their futures were bright and now amount of low expectations, stereotyping or just apathy from their peers, adults or communities would stop them from achieving their dreams.
We enjoyed our time learning and listening to these incredible and brave student leaders. Enjoy some photos.